The bill amends Section 40-8.9-9 of the General Laws to establish a long-term-care rebalancing system reform goal. It authorizes the secretary of the executive office of health and human services (EOHHS) to implement resource eligibility limits of $12,000 for single persons and $18,000 for couples for individuals with long-term-care needs who reside at home. The act requires Medicaid-certified assisted living facilities and adult day service providers to report semi-annually to the EOHHS regarding the number of persons served each month and the patients' certification categories for the prior six months.

The bill promotes a person-centered approach, emphasizing individual choice and access to supportive services in community settings to reduce reliance on institutional care. It enhances the capacity and quality of home- and community-based services by allowing the consolidation of existing services and establishing new payment methodologies. Additionally, it outlines the implementation of a long-term-care-options counseling program and a statewide conflict-free case management network to ensure equitable access to services.

This act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6074: 40-8.9-9